What is the Role of Receptors in Neurotransmitter Function?
Receptors are proteins located on the post-synaptic membrane that bind to neurotransmitters. There are two main types of receptors:
- Ionotropic Receptors: These are ligand-gated ion channels that open in response to neurotransmitter binding, allowing ions to flow into or out of the neuron, leading to rapid changes in membrane potential. - Metabotropic Receptors: These are G-protein coupled receptors that activate second messenger systems within the cell, leading to slower but more prolonged cellular responses.
